Can concomitant bladder neck incision and primary valve ablation reduce early re-admission rate and secondary intervention?

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effect of bladder neck morphology and its incision (BNI) in patients with posterior urethral valve (PUV) on early reintervention rate. Patients and methods: Infants undergoing PUV ablation (PVA) before 24 months of age and had at least 18 months of follow-up, were categorized into three groups according to the bladder neck appearance on baseline radiological and endoscopic examination: group 1; normal bladder neck underwent PVA, group 2; high bladder neck underwent PVA plus BNI, group 3; high bladder neck underwent PVA only. Early reintervention was defined as the need for check cystoscopy because of persistent renal function deterioration, worsening hydronephrosis and/or unsatisfactory VCUG improvement during the 1st six months post primary PVA. Results: Between 2000 and 2017, a total of 114 patients underwent PVA and met the study criteria with a median follow-up of 58 (18-230) months. For group 1, 16 (22.9%) patients needed readmission. Check cystoscopy was free and no further intervention was performed in 5(7.5%) and re-ablation was performed in 11(15.7%) patients. For group 2, 3(14.3%) patients needed reintervention. Re-ablation and re-ablation plus BNI were performed in 1(4.8%) and 2(9.5%), respectively. For group 3, cystoscopy was free in 1(4.3%), re-ablation and re-ablation plus BNI were performed 2(8.7%) and 1(4.3%), respectively. There were no significant differences in the re-admission and re-intervention rates among the three study groups (p=0.65 and p=0.50, respectively). Conclusion: In morphologically high bladder neck associated PUV, concomitant BNI with PVA doesn't reduce early re-intervention rate.

Acacia senegal inhibits diabetic nephropathy ultrastructure alteration and renal biomarkers changes in rats / Acacia senegal inhibe la alteración de la ultraestructura de la nefropatía diabética y los cambios en los biomarcadores renales en rata

SUMMARY: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetes. Several studies have been done in a trial to protect against this problem at the ultrastructure level. This study investigates the protective effect of oral administration of Acacia senegal (AS) against the development of DN. Sixty male albino rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, Acacia senegal control, Diabetic untreated, diabetic insulin-treated, Diabetic AS treated, and Diabetic insulin and AS combined treated groups. Plasma glucose, HbA1c, serum Albumin, creatinine, urine creatinine was measured using specific kits. Determinations of creatinine clearance and blood pressure were done. The renal tissues of both kidneys were prepared to investigate under both light (LM) and electron microscope (EM). Ultrastructure examination of renal rats tissue of diabetic untreated rats showed the destruction of the glomerular basement membrane and endothelial cells together with hemorrhage in glomerular capsules (Bowman's capsules). On the other side, both LM and EM revealed improving the endothelial cells and the other glomerular capsules structures, especially with the combined treated group, which confirmed the improvement of the biochemical investigation in the study. In conclusion, from the present study, using the oral AS together with SC insulin could be protected against the development of DN.

RESUMEN: La nefropatía diabética (ND) es la complicación más común de la diabetes. Se han realizado varios estudios de ensayo para abordar esta dificultad a nivel de ultraestructura. Este estudio investiga el efecto protector de la administración oral de Acacia senegal (AS) contra el desarrollo de la ND. Se dividieron sesenta ratas albinas machos aleatoriamente en seis grupos: control, control de Acacia senegal, diabéticos no tratados, diabéticos tratados con insulina, diabéticos tratados con AS y grupos tratados con compuesto de insulina diabética + AS. Se midieron utilizando kits específicos, glucosa plasmática, HbA1c, albúmina sérica, creatinina en sangre y en orina. Se registraron la creatinina y la presión arterial. Los tejidos renales de ambos riñones se prepararon para investigar tanto con microscopio óptico (MO) como electrónico (ME). El examen de la ultraestructura del tejido renal de ratas diabéticas no tratadas mostró la destrucción de la membrana basal glomerular y las células endoteliales junto con hemorragia en las cápsulas glomerulares (cápsulas de Bowman). Por otro lado, tanto MO como ME revelaron una mejora de las células endoteliales y las estructuras capsulares glomerulares, en el grupo tratado con el compuesto, lo que confirmó la mejora de la investigación bioquímica. En conclusión, el uso de AS oral en combinación con insulina podría proteger contra el desarrollo de ND.

Role of fibrinogen in the attenuation of ischemia reperfusion and remote ischemic preconditioning / El papel del fibrinógeno en la atenuación de la isquemia-reperfusión y el preacondicionamiento isquémico remoto

Abstract Background: Ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common hazard involved in many human diseases, such as cerebral stroke, myocardial infarction, solid organ transplant dysfunction or failure, and vascular diseases. Understanding the molecular bases of this injury is essential for the prevention and control of these life-threatening conditions. Ischemic and remote ischemic preconditioning techniques (IPC and RIPC, respectively) have gained increasing importance in the clinical practice to protect against the IRI; however, the exact mechanisms of these techniques are not fully understood, which renders their clinical application query. Possible effectors: Nitric oxide (NO) has been reported by multiple studies to be an important mediator of the protective effects of those techniques. While the physiological concentrations of NO and fibrinogen (FB) are known to antagonize each other, the circulating levels of both effectors increase in response to RIPC. Hypothesis: While NO has potential anti-inflammatory effects, non-soluble fibrinogen (sFB) shows pro- inflammatory effects. However, the sFB may have the potential to act synergistically rather than antagonistically with NO toward the attenuation of the IRI. Conclusion: While increased FB is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular and inflammatory conditions that is also able to decrease the efflux of NO, and increase the NO oxidative metabolits and S- nitroglutathione, the increased sFB during the acute phase reaction might have other protective aspects that should be carefully investigated.

Resumen Antecedentes: La lesión por isquemia-reperfusión (LIR) es un riesgo común involucrado en muchas enfermedades humanas tales como derrame cerebral, infarto del miocardio, disfunción o falla de trasplante de órgano sólido, y enfermedades vasculares. Una comprensión de la base molecular de esta lesión es fundamental para la prevención y el control de estas enfermedades potencialmente mortales. Las técnicas de preacondicionamiento isquémico y preacondicionamiento isquémico remoto (PIR) han cobrado una creciente importancia en la práctica clínica para la protección contra la LIR, sin embargo, los mecanismos precisos de estas técnicas no se entienden plenamente, lo cual pone en duda su aplicación clínica. Posibles efectores: El óxido nítrico (ON) ha sido reportado por varios estudios como un importante mediador de los efectos protectores de estas técnicas. Si bien se sabe que las concentraciones fisiológicas del ON y fibrinógeno son antagónicas, los niveles circulantes de ambos efectores aumentan en respuesta al PIR. Hipótesis: Aunque el ON tiene posibles efectos anti-inflamatorios, el fibrinógeno insoluble muestra efectos proinflamatorios. Sin embargo, el fibrinógeno soluble puede tener el potencial de actuar de manera sinérgica en lugar de antagónica con el ON hacia la atenuación de la LIR. Conclusión: Aunque el fibrinógeno elevado se considera un factor de riesgo para las enfermedades cardiovasculares e inflamatorias, que también puede disminuir la descarga de ON y aumentar los niveles de metabolitos oxidantes del ON y de S-nitrosoglutatión, el aumento de fibrinógeno soluble durante la reacción de fase aguda puede tener otros aspectos protectores que deben ser cuidadosamente investigados.

Green-synthetized selenium nanoparticles using berberine as a promising anticancer agent / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#The chemo-preventative and therapeutic properties of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have been documented over recent decades and suggest the potential uses of SeNPs in medicine. Biogenic SeNPs have higher biocompatibility and stability than chemically synthesized nanoparticles, which enhances their medical applications, especially in the field of cancer therapy. This study evaluated the potential of green-synthetized SeNPs by using berberine (Ber) as an antitumor agent and elucidated the mechanism by which these molecules combat Ehrlich solid tumors (ESTs).@*METHODS@#SeNPs containing Ber (SeNPs-Ber) were synthesized using Ber and Na@*RESULTS@#Treatment with SeNPs-Ber significantly improved the survival rate and decreased the body weight and tumor size, compared to the EST group. SeNPs-Ber reduced oxidative stress in tumor tissue, as indicated by a decrease in the lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide levels and an increase in the glutathione levels. Moreover, SeNPs-Ber activated an apoptotic cascade in the tumor cells by downregulating the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression rate and upregulating the Bcl-2-associated X protein and caspase-3 expression rates. SeNPs-Ber also considerably improved the histopathological alterations in the developed tumor tissue, compared to the EST group.@*CONCLUSION@#Our study provides a new insight into the potential role of green-synthesized SeNPs by using Ber as a promising anticancer agent, these molecules could be used alone or as supplementary medication during chemotherapy.

Durability of bond strength to dentin using two universal adhesives in different etching modes

Aim. To evaluate the bond durability of two universal adhesives; mild and ultra-mild in both etch-and-rinse and self-etch modes after simulated in-vitro degradation by long-term water storage or thermocycling. Methods. A total of 144 specimens were used in this study; 120 specimens (prepared from 30 teeth) for microshear bond strength testing and fracture mode assessment, and 24 specimens for scanning electron microscopic evaluation (prepared from 24 teeth). Specimens were prepared from 54 recently extracted caries free third molars and randomly divided into 12 groups, according to the adhesive treatment (All Bond or Scotchbond Universal), etching mode (etch-andrinse or self-etch) and aging method (thermocycling or water storage). Each tooth was sectioned mesio-distally into two halves exposing free dentin surface for bonding where dentin substrate 1 mm below the dentino-enamel junction was used. After adhesive application and composite build up, specimens were tested in shear mode after storing in distilled water at 37˚C for 24 hours or 1 year, or after being thermocycled between 5 and 55 °C for 10,000 cycles (n=10). Microshear bond strength (µSBS) was tested using a universal testing machine. Adhesive-dentin interface was examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) (n=2). Data were analyzed using 3 way AN0VA and pairwise comparisons was performed using Bonferroni correction at significance level of α ≤0.05. Results. Statistical analysis revealed non-significant difference for etching mode in both adhesives (p=0.596). After aging, the bond strength was only reduced in Scotchbond Universal after one year of water storage in both modes (p<0.001). SEM evaluation revealed intact hybrid layer and longer resin tags for etch-and-rinse mode than selfetch mode of both adhesives. Conclusion. The bond strength of universal adhesives is not affected by the etching mode, however its durability was shown to be material dependent

Effect of Intermittent Fasting on Glucose Homeostasis and Bone Remodeling in Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis Rat Model

Background@#The present study examined the effect of intermittent fasting (IF) on bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) and the markers of bone remodeling in a glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) rat model. @*Methods@#Forty male rats were allocated to 4 groups (N=10 per group): control group of normal rats; control+IF group (normal rats subjected to IF for 16-18 hr daily for 90 days); dexamethasone (DEX) group: (DEX [0.5 mg i.p.] for 90 days); and DEX+IF group (DEX and IF for 90 days). By the end of the experiment, BMD and BMC in the right tibia were measured. Serum levels of the following were measured: glucose; insulin; triglycerides (TGs); total cholesterol; parathyroid hormone (PTH); osteoprotegerin (OPG); receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK); bone-resorbing cytokines, including bone deoxypyridinoline (DPD), N-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I (NTX-1), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAP-5b); and bone-forming cytokines, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OC). @*Results@#DEX administration for 90 days resulted in significantly increased serum levels of glucose, insulin, TGs, cholesterol, PTH, OPG, DPD, NTX-1, and TRAP-5b and significantly decreased BMD, BMC, and serum levels of RANK, OC, and ALP (all P<0.05). IF for 90 days significantly improved all these parameters (all P<0.05). @*Conclusions@#IF corrected GIO in rats by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and PTH secretion and stimulating osteoblast activity.

Split-Block Graft Versus Cortico-cancellous Block Graft for Horizontal Ridge Augmentation: Cone Beam Computed Tomography and Histomorphometric Study / Enxerto de bloco dividido versus enxerto de bloco córtico-esponjoso para aumento horizontal do rebordo: imagens de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico e estudo histomorfométrico

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the horizontal dimensional changes of split-bone block and cortico-cancellous block graft in horizontal ridge augmentation using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). The quality of the regenerated bone in both groups was compared histologically and histomorphometrically. Material and methods: Twenty patients were randomly divided in two equal groups (n= 10): Split-bone block group which was harvested from the external oblique ridge or cortico-cancellous block graft group which was harvested from the mandibular symphysis. Pre-augmentation crestal ridge width was measured using bone caliper. CBCT scans were taken on the 2nd week and 4th month post-operatively to measure crestal and total horizontal ridge dimensions. A biopsy was collected from the regenerated ridge immediately before implant insertion on the 4thmonth post-operatively. Results: Pre-augmentation crestal bone widths of both groups were comparable (P= 0.870). On the 2nd week and 4th month post-operatively, split-bone block showed a significantly wider crestal (P= 0.028 and P= 0.001 respectively) and total horizontal ridge dimension (P= 0.025 and P= 0.002 respectively), and on the 4th month post-operatively, it showed significantly lesser resorption at crest (P= 0.040) and in total horizontal ridge dimension (P= 0.017) than cortico-cancellous block. Histologically, the regenerated bone quality was similar in both groups. Histomorphometric analysis showed a non-significant difference in percentage of mature (P= 0.365) and immature collagen (P= 0.531) between both groups. Conclusion: Split-bone block maintained a significantly wider ridge and experienced less resorption after 4 months than the cortico-cancellous block graft, with no difference in regenerated bone quality between both groups. (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar as mudanças dimensionais horizontais do enxerto de bloco ósseo dividido e do enxerto de bloco córtico-esponjoso no aumento de rebordo horizontal por meio da Tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC). A qualidade do osso regenerado em ambos os grupos foi comparada histológica e histomorfometricamente. Material e Métodos:Vinte pacientes foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos iguais (n=10): Grupo de blocos de osso dividido retirado da crista oblíqua externa ou Grupo de enxerto em bloco córtico-esponjoso retirado da sínfise mandibular. A largura da crista pré-aumentada foi medida usando calibrador ósseo. Os exames de TCFC foram realizados na segunda semana e quarto mês de pós operatório para medir as dimensões da crista e dimensões horizontais totais do rebordo. Uma biopsia foi coletada da crista regenerada imediatamente antes da inserção do implante no quarto mês pós-operatório. Resultados: As larguras do osso crestal pré-aumentado de ambos os grupos eram compatíveis (p = 0,870). Na segunda semana e quarto mês pós-operatórios, o bloco ósseo dividido mostrou uma crista significativamente mais larga (p = 0,28 e p = 0,001 respectivamente) e a dimensão da crista horizontal total (p = 0,025 e p = 0,002 respectivamente), e no quarto mês pós-operatório, apresentou reabsorção significativamente menor na crista (p = 0,040) e na dimensão da crista horizontal total (p = 0,017) em comparação ao bloco córtico-esponjoso. Histologicamente, a qualidade do osso regenerado foi semelhante em ambos os grupos. A análise histomorfométrica mostrou uma diferença não significativa na porcentagem de colágeno maduro (p = 0.365) e colágeno imaturo (p = 0,531) entre ambos os grupos. Conclusão: O bloco ósseo dividido manteve uma crista significativamente mais larga e apresentou menos reabsorção após 4 meses, em comparação ao enxerto em bloco córtico-esponjoso, sem diferença na qualidade do osso regenerado entre ambos os grupos. (AU)

Tissue trauma and inflammatory response following laparoscopic versus abdominal hysterectomy: a prospective randomized clinical trial

Background: Laparoscopic surgery is associated with more favorable clinical outcome than conventional open surgery. This might be related to the magnitude of tissue trauma and tissue stress response. This study compares the intensity of tissue injury by assessing plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy compared to abdominal hysterectomy.Methods: This study was conducted at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital from May 2018 to February 2020. 74 women candidate for hysterectomy were recruited and randomized into two groups: group A included 37 cases who underwent abdominal hysterectomy, and group B included 37 cases that underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy.Results: CRP, LDH and CA125 significantly increased post-operatively in both groups. Postoperative mean serum CRP, LDH and CA125 were significantly higher in the laparotomy group (10.84±2.47, 262.21±76.77, and 13.41±2.6 respectively) compared to laparoscopy group (7.92±2.25, 148.53±43.56, 11.79±2.77 respectively) (p<0.05).Conclusions: Surgery is a significant cause of tissue injury that can be assessed by specific markers. We suggest that laparoscopic surgery causes less tissue damage as assessed by lower postoperative CRP and LDH values, which might account for the earlier recovery and reduced hospital stay in laparoscopic surgery.

The effect of Spirulina algae on the immune response of SPF chickens to commercial inactivated Newcastle vaccine in poultry / El efecto del alga Spirulina sobre la respuesta inmune de pollos SPF inducida por la vacuna inactivada comercial contra la enfermedad de Newcastle

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) powder supplementation on immune response in SPF chickens. For this purpose, 120 SPF chicks were randomly clustered into six groups consisting of 20 birds each which assigned to five groups vaccinated by commercial inactivated Newcastle disease (ND) vaccine at 21 days of age. The four groups were supplemented with 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 g of SP per kg of ration at 7 day of age and other group as control treatment group. Control unvaccinated group still without any treatment. Individual blood samples were collected weekly from all groups, and NDV-HI antibodies were measured using Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. After 28 days post-vaccination, ten birds from all groups were challenged intramuscularly at a dose 0.5 mL/bird containing 106 EID50 of local NDV genotype VII. Challenge virus shedding was detected using real time qrt-PCR of oropharyngeal swabs that were collected from all challenged chicken groups of at 3, 5, 7 and 10 days post challenge. Obtained results showed that vaccinated groups of SPF-chickens either supplied with Spirulina or control treatment group induced positive serological response as NDV-HI antibody were measured in sera of immunized chicks (7.6, 8, 8.3, 8.9 and 7.4 log2, respectively) at 4 weeks post vaccination (WPV). Significant differences were observed at 2 WPV in the vaccinated SPF chickens consumed 1, 1.5 and 2 g of SP/kg of ration, compared to untreated vaccinated group (p<0.05). Immunized SPF chickens supplied with different SP concentration confer satisfactory protection against heterologous challenge virus (90 percent, 100 percent, 100 percent and 100 percent respectively), in contrast to untreated vaccinated chickens. Different percentages of reduction of viral shedding (55 percent, 65 percent, 76 percent and 87 percent) of treated vaccinated chickens with different concentration of SP were detected, despite untreated group were reduced 46 percent from total viral shedding. These findings suggest that dietary Spirulina has immune-stimulatory effects on the immune system of SPF chickens. One gram from SP per kg of ration was minimum recommended concentration that able to exhibit optimum immune response, increase protection against heterologous strains and able to reduce viral shedding(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar los efectos de la suplementación con polvo de Spirulina platensis (SP) sobre la respuesta inmune en pollos SPF. Para este propósito se agruparon al azar 120 polluelos SPF en seis grupos de 20 aves cada uno, que se asignaron a cinco grupos vacunados con la vacuna comercial inactivada contra la enfermedad de Newcastle (ND) a los 21 días de edad. Cuatro grupos se suplementaron con 0,5; 1; 1,5 y 2 g de SP por kg de ración a los 7 días de edad, un grupo vacunado sin suplemento y un grupo sin ningún tratamiento. Semanalmente, se recogieron muestras de sangre individuales de todos los grupos y se midieron los anticuerpos hemaglutinantes contra el virus Newcastle (NDV-HI) mediante la prueba de inhibición de la hemaglutinación (HI). 28 días después de la vacunación, fueron retadas diez aves de cada grupo por vía intramuscular a una dosis 106 EID50 del genotipo VII del NDV local en un volumen de 0,5 mL/ave. Se detectó la eliminación del virus mediante qrt-PCR en hisopos orofaríngeos que se recolectaron en todos los grupos a los 3, 5, 7 y 10 días después del reto. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que los grupos vacunados de pollos y suplementados con Espirulina y el grupo de control vacunado, indujeron una respuesta serológica positiva cuando se determinaron los anticuerpos NDV-HI en los pollitos inmunizados (7,6; 8; 8,3; 8,9 y 7,4 log2 respectivamente) a las 4 semanas después de la vacunación (SPV). Se observaron diferencias significativas a las 2 SPV en los pollos vacunados que consumieron 1, 1,5 y 2 g de SP/kg de ración, en comparación con el grupo vacunado no tratado (p<0,05). Los pollos inmunizados que recibieron diferentes concentraciones de SP mostraron una protección satisfactoria contra el desafío heterólogo viral (90 por ciento, 100 por ciento y 100 por ciento respectivamente), en contraste con los pollos vacunados no tratados. Se observaron diferentes porcentajes de reducción de la diseminación viral (55 por ciento, 76 por ciento y 87 por ciento) entre los pollos vacunados tratados con diferente concentración de SP. En el grupo no tratado se redujo al 46 por ciento. Estos hallazgos sugieren que la Espirulina en la dieta tiene efectos inmunoestimuladores sobre el sistema inmunitario de los pollos. Un gramo de SP por kg de ración fue la concentración mínima recomendada para una respuesta inmune óptima, y de esta forma aumentar la protección contra las cepas heterólogas y disminuir la diseminación viral(AU)

Synergism Between Probiotics And Herbs To Manage Type 2 Diabetes In Rats

Objective: This study aims to explore the adjuvant effect of multi-strain probiotics with either saffron, cardamom, ginger, or cinnamon herbs to achieve synergistic management for controlling type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: Eighty-eight adult male, Wistar rats were used. Eight rats were kept as healthy control. Eighty rats were used to induce type 2 diabetic rats (T2DR) and were randomly assigned to ten groups. One group was an offer to 0.2 ml multi-strain probiotics orally. The rest of T2DR were gavage with 100 mg/kg aqueous extract of saffron, cardamom, ginger, or cinnamon without or with 0.2 ml multi-strain probiotics orally. Bodyweight gain (BWG), and feed efficiency ratio (FER) were recorded. Determination of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), serum insulin, C-peptide, HDL, LDL, HDL/total cholesterol ratio were performed. Serum antioxidant activity, Th1and Th2 cytokines and histopathology of the pancreas were done. Results: Comparable with T2DR, solely multi-strain probiotics or with herbs caused a significant reduction in BWG (P<0.05). Groups fed saffron, cardamom, and ginger and enriched with multi-strain probiotic showed significant improvement in OGTT, serum insulin, C-peptide and lipid abnormalities (P<0.05) compared to T2DR. Besides, they had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The group received ginger alone exerted anti-hyperglycemia and anti-inflammatory effects. However, cinnamon had a moderate anti-diabetic effect and solely probiotics did not show a significant benefit for all parameters except BWG. Conclusion: Cardamom, saffron, and ginger enriched with multi-strain probiotics achieve a synergistic relationship for managing T2D. This finding exhibits a possible new hypothesis to manage diabetes that needs further study.

Antioxidant Activities of Phycocyanin: A Bioactive Compound from Spirulina platensis

Background and Objectives:The cyanobacterium Spirulinaalso calledblue green algae is a class of gram negative bacteria which possesses wide range of bioactive colored components as Phycocyanin, carotenoids and chlorophyll. Spirulinais one of the microalgae containing nutrients that havebeen used as a functional food in addition to therapeuticand pharmaceutical applications.This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical composition of Spirulina platensisbiomass and its ethanolic and aqueous extracts, as well as, evaluate the antioxidant activities of the biomass, ethanolic, aqueous and the purified Phycocyanin.Materials and Methods:The chemical compositions of Spirulina platensis were determined, as well as the antioxidant activity of extracts, Phycocyanin, Phycocyanopeptide and Phycocyanobilin using (DPPH) radical-scavenging activity.Results:Results show that biomass has higher total proteins (49.72±0.508%), total carbohydrates (10.3±0.330%), moisture content (7.5±0.685%), lipids (7.2±0.105%) and Minerals (6.9±0.130%).In biomass, the total phenols (51.20±0.25μg/mL) and flavonoids (97.73±1.858 μg/mL) were high compared to the ethanolic (49.48±0.130 and 69.07±1.814 μg/mL) and aqueous (15.27±0.639 and 4.67±0.611 μg/mL) extracts respectively. In the phenolic compounds, pyrogallol was identified as the major compound in biomass and aqueous extract (63.85 and 12.33%) respectively, E-vanillic acid in ethanolic (18.20 %), whereas, hespirdin (3.517 and1.639%) were major flavonoids found in aqueous and ethanolic extracts respectively. The DPPH scavenging activity was found higher in ethanolic extract compared to aqueous while in bioactive, the order of antioxidant activity was Phycocyanin > Phycocyanobilin > Phycocyanopeptide.Conclusions:The study data regarding toSpirulinanutritional value, makesSpirulinaan excellent choice when formulating diets and combating malnutrition. Furthermore, it is a strong antioxidant and could be used as alternative treatments as anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory agent.

A new phantom to evaluate the tissue dissolution ability of endodontic irrigants and activating devices

Objective@#The aim of this study was to introduce a gelatin/bovine serum albumin (BSA) tissue standard, which provides dissolution properties identical to those of biological tissues. Further, the study evaluated whether the utilization of endodontic activating devices led to enhanced phantom dissolution rates. @*Materials and Methods@#Bovine pulp tissue was obtained to determine a benchmark of tissue dissolution. The surface area and mass of samples were held constant while the ratio of gelatin and BSA were varied, ranging from 7.5% to 10% gelatin and 5% BSA. Each sample was placed in an individual test tube that was filled with an appropriate sodium hypochlorite solution for 1, 3, and 5 minutes, and then removed from the solution, blotted dry, and weighed again. The remaining tissue was calculated as the percent of initial tissue to determine the tissue dissolution rate. A radiopaque agent (sodium diatrizoate) and a fluorescent dye (methylene blue) were added to the phantom to allow easy quantification of phantom dissolution in a canal block model when activated using ultrasonic (EndoUltra) or sonic (EndoActivator) energy. @*Results@#The 9% gelatin + 5% BSA phantom showed statistically equivalent dissolution to bovine pulp tissue at all time intervals. Furthermore, the EndoUltra yielded significantly more phantom dissolution in the canal block than the EndoActivator or syringe irrigation. @*Conclusions@#Our phantom is comparable to biological tissue in terms of tissue dissolution and could be utilized for in vitro tests due to its injectability and detectability.

The impact of omeprazole on mycophenolate pharmacokinetics in kidney transplant recipients

Background@#The absorption rates of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) may be influenced by the concomitant use of omeprazole. @*Methods@#One hundred kidney transplant patients were recruited during their outpatient visits, including 50 on MMF and 50 on EC-MPS. At the clinic, a predose mycophenolic acid (MPA) sample (C0) was collected; subsequently, the participants received the proton-pump inhibitor omeprazole along with either MMF or EC-MPS. Two more blood samples were collected at 1.5 and 3.5 hours and used to estimate an area under the curve (AUC) from zero to 12 hours [AUC (0-12)]. @*Results@#The mean number of months after transplant was 92 months. The median AUC (0-12) and C0 results were 62.2 mg·h/L and 2.0 mg/L for the MMF group and 71.9 mg·h/L and 1.8 mg/L for the EC-MPS group (P = 0.160 and 0.225, respectively). Interestingly, 54% of the MMF group and 62% of the EC-MPS group showed AUCs above the target values. The correlation between MPA C0 and the predicted AUC was poor in both groups. @*Conclusion@#Omeprazole can be safely co-administered with either MMF or EC-MPS, as it did not compromise the MPA exposure. Unexpectedly, however, a high percentage of patients presented MPA AUCs exceeding the target value, highlighting the importance of periodically assessing MPA level.

A new phantom to evaluate the tissue dissolution ability of endodontic irrigants and activating devices

Objective@#The aim of this study was to introduce a gelatin/bovine serum albumin (BSA) tissue standard, which provides dissolution properties identical to those of biological tissues. Further, the study evaluated whether the utilization of endodontic activating devices led to enhanced phantom dissolution rates. @*Materials and Methods@#Bovine pulp tissue was obtained to determine a benchmark of tissue dissolution. The surface area and mass of samples were held constant while the ratio of gelatin and BSA were varied, ranging from 7.5% to 10% gelatin and 5% BSA. Each sample was placed in an individual test tube that was filled with an appropriate sodium hypochlorite solution for 1, 3, and 5 minutes, and then removed from the solution, blotted dry, and weighed again. The remaining tissue was calculated as the percent of initial tissue to determine the tissue dissolution rate. A radiopaque agent (sodium diatrizoate) and a fluorescent dye (methylene blue) were added to the phantom to allow easy quantification of phantom dissolution in a canal block model when activated using ultrasonic (EndoUltra) or sonic (EndoActivator) energy. @*Results@#The 9% gelatin + 5% BSA phantom showed statistically equivalent dissolution to bovine pulp tissue at all time intervals. Furthermore, the EndoUltra yielded significantly more phantom dissolution in the canal block than the EndoActivator or syringe irrigation. @*Conclusions@#Our phantom is comparable to biological tissue in terms of tissue dissolution and could be utilized for in vitro tests due to its injectability and detectability.

The impact of omeprazole on mycophenolate pharmacokinetics in kidney transplant recipients

Background@#The absorption rates of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) may be influenced by the concomitant use of omeprazole. @*Methods@#One hundred kidney transplant patients were recruited during their outpatient visits, including 50 on MMF and 50 on EC-MPS. At the clinic, a predose mycophenolic acid (MPA) sample (C0) was collected; subsequently, the participants received the proton-pump inhibitor omeprazole along with either MMF or EC-MPS. Two more blood samples were collected at 1.5 and 3.5 hours and used to estimate an area under the curve (AUC) from zero to 12 hours [AUC (0-12)]. @*Results@#The mean number of months after transplant was 92 months. The median AUC (0-12) and C0 results were 62.2 mg·h/L and 2.0 mg/L for the MMF group and 71.9 mg·h/L and 1.8 mg/L for the EC-MPS group (P = 0.160 and 0.225, respectively). Interestingly, 54% of the MMF group and 62% of the EC-MPS group showed AUCs above the target values. The correlation between MPA C0 and the predicted AUC was poor in both groups. @*Conclusion@#Omeprazole can be safely co-administered with either MMF or EC-MPS, as it did not compromise the MPA exposure. Unexpectedly, however, a high percentage of patients presented MPA AUCs exceeding the target value, highlighting the importance of periodically assessing MPA level.

Inhibition of paracetamol-induced acute kidney damage in rats using a combination of resveratrol and quercetin / Inhibición de daño renal agudo inducido por paracetamol en ratas usando una combinación de resveratrol y quercetina

Paracetamol (also called acetaminophen, or APAP) overdose causes acute damage to the liver and kidneys in both humans and experimental animal models via the induction of the oxidative stress pathway. We sought to determine whether the combined antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, resveratrol (RES) and quercetin (QUR) can protect against kidney injury induced by a toxic dose of APAP in a rat model of APAP-induced acute kidney injury. Rats were either received a single dose of APAP (2 g/kg) before being sacrificed after 24 hours or were pre-treated for 7 days with combined doses of RES (30 mg/kg) and QUR (50 mg/kg) before being given a single dose of APAP and then sacrificed 24 hours post APAP ingestion. Harvested kidney tissues were prepared for light microscopy staining, and tissue samples were assayed for (i) biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidant, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD); and (ii) biomarkers of inflammation, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained images showed that APAP overdose induced acute kidney injury as demonstrated by widening of glomeruli space (Bowman space), tubular dilatation, numerous cellular debris in the renal tubules with tubular epithelial degeneration, and vacuolization, which were effectively protected by RES+QUR except a partial protection of the glomeruli space was observed. In addition, APAP significantly (p<0.05) modulated tissue levels of MDA, SOD, TNF-α, and IL-6, which were protected by RES+QUR. Furthermore, a significant (p<0.0001) positive correlation was observed between glomeruli space and TNF-α, (r=0.8899), IL-6 (r=0.8986), and MDA (r=0.8552), whereas glomeruli space scoring versus SOD showed negative correlation (r= - 0.7870). We conclude that resveratrol plus quercetin substantially protects against APAP-induced acute kidney injury in rats, possibly via the augmentation of antioxidants and inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation.

La sobredosis de paracetamol (también llamado acetaminofen o APAP) causa un daño agudo en el hígado y los riñones, tanto en humanos como en modelos animales experimentales, a través de la inducción de la vía del estrés oxidativo. Intentamos determinar si los antioxidantes y los compuestos antiinflamatorios combinados, el resveratrol (RES) y la quercetina (QUR) pueden proteger contra la lesión renal inducida por una dosis tóxica de APAP en un modelo de rata de lesión renal aguda inducida por APAP. Las ratas recibieron una dosis única de APAP (2 g / kg) antes de ser sacrificadas después de 24 horas o se trataron previamente durante 7 días con dosis combinadas de RES (30 mg / kg) y QUR (50 mg / kg), antes de ser tratadas, se administró una dosis única de APAP y luego fueron sacrificadas 24 horas después de la ingestión. Los tejidos renales recolectados se tiñeron con H-E y fueron observados a través de microscopía óptica. Las muestras de tejido se analizaron para (i) biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo y antioxidante, malondialdehído (MDA) y superóxido dismutasa (SOD); y (ii) biomarcadores de inflamación, factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-α) e interleucina-6 (IL-6). Las imágenes teñidas con H & E mostraron que la sobredosis de APAP indujo daño renal agudo como lo demuestra la ampliación del espacio glomerular, la dilatación tubular, numerosos desechos celulares en los túbulos renales con degeneración epitelial tubular y la vacuolización, que se protegieron eficazmente con RES + QUR Se observó una protección parcial del espacio glomerular. Además, APAP modificó significativamente (p <0.05) los niveles tisulares de MDA, SOD, TNF-α e IL-6, que estaban protegidos por RES + QUR. Además, se observó una correlación positiva significativa (p <0,0001) entre el espacio glomerular y el TNF-α, (r = 0,8899), IL-6 (r = 0,8986) y MDA (r = 0,8552), mientras que la puntuación del espacio glomerular versus SOD mostró correlación negativa (r = - 0,7870). Concluimos que el resveratrol más quercetina protege sustancialmente contra la lesión renal aguda inducida por APAP en ratas, posiblemente a través del aumento de antioxidantes y la inhibición del estrés oxidativo y la inflamación.

Isolation and properties of lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme from buffalo liver: Application in AST and ALT assay diagnostic kits

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzyme is a major component of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanineaminotransferase (ALT) diagnosis kits. In this work, the LDH enzyme was purified and characterized from buffalo liverfor direct application in the preparation of AST and ALT diagnosis kits. One major LDH (BLLDH) isoform and twoother secondary LDH peaks were analyzed for buffalo liver by diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) cellulose chromatography.BLLDH was obtained by ammonium sulfate sedimentation and chromatographically separated on ion exchange andsize-exclusion matrices. The isolated BLLDH has a specific activity of 17.6 units/mg proteins represented 16 foldsand 32% recovery. BLLDH was manifested homogeneous on native and SDS gels with 35 kDa native mass. OptimumpH of BLLDH was displayed at pH 7.6. BLLDH activity was diminished by FeCl2 and SDS. The produced BLLDH isutilized in constructing of AST and ALT diagnosis kits that were sensible and analogous to trade ready kits.

The significance of retroflexion technique in the right colon on adenoma detection rates during colonoscopy / O significado da técnica de retroflexão no cólon direito nas taxas de detecção de adenomas durante a colonoscopia

ABSTRACT Background and aim: Right colon adenomas can easily missed with significant adenoma miss rate particularly when they are located behind the haustral folds and anatomical flexures. The aim of this study was to assess the significance of retroflexion technique in the right colon for improving adenoma detection rates compared with forward-view technique. Methods: A total of 200 patients scheduled for elective colonoscopy were recruited. During the standard forward-view examination, the colonoscope was withdrawn from the cecum to the hepatic flexure while under meticulous observation. Subsequently, the cecum was reintubated and the right side of the colon was assessed in the retroflexed-view to the hepatic flexure. The primary outcome of this study was comparison of the adenoma detection rates and adenoma miss rate of the retroflexed-view versus forward-view examination of the right colon. Results: Of the 200 enrolled patients, retroflexion was successful in 182 (91%). Forward-view examination of the right colon detected 88 polyps, of which 66 were adenomas yielding a polyp and adenoma detection rates of 25.5% and 19%, respectively. Additionally, retroflexion detected a further 30 polyps of which 23 were adenomas, accordingly improving the polyp and adenoma detection rates to 29.5% and 25%, respectively. Furthermore, the polyp and adenoma miss rate in the right colon was 24.1% and 25.8% respectively. Conclusion: Colonoscopy with right-sided retroflexion after forward-view examination significantly increases the detection of adenomas compared with standard forward-view examination with a high success rate and small risk of adverse events.

RESUMO Antecedentes e objetivo: Os adenomas do cólon direito podem não ser diagnosticados, apresentando uma elevada taxa de não detecção de adenoma, especialmente quando estão localizados atrás das pregas haustrais e flexões anatômicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar, no cólon direito, a técnica de visualização retroflexionada com a técnica de visualização frontal quanto à taxa de detecção de adenoma. Métodos: Um total de 200 pacientes agendados para colonoscopia eletiva foram recrutados para o presente estudo. Durante o exame de visualização frontal padrão, o colonoscópio foi retirado do ceco em direção à flexão hepática sob observação meticulosa. Posteriormente, o ceco foi reintubado e o lado direito do cólon foi avaliado na visualização retroflexionada em direção à flexão hepática. O objetivo primário deste estudo foi comparar a taxa de detecção de adenoma e a taxa de não detecção de adenoma do exame de visualização retroflexionada e visualização frontal do cólon direito. Resultados: Dos 200 pacientes inscritos, a retroflexão foi bem sucedida em 182 (91%). A visualização frontal do cólon direito detectou 88 pólipos, dos quais 66 eram adenomas, com uma taxa de detecção de pólipos e taxa de detecção de adenoma de 25,5% e 19%, respectivamente. Além disso, a visualização retroflexionada detectou mais 30 pólipos, dos quais 23 eram adenomas, aumentando a taxa de detecção de pólipos e adenoma para 29,5% e 25%, respectivamente. Além disso, a taxa não detecção de pólipos e a taxa de não detecção de adenoma no cólon direito foram de 24,1% e 25,8%, respectivamente. Conclusão: A colonoscopia com visualização retroflexionada direita após visualização frontal aumenta significativamente a detecção de adenomas em comparação com a visualização frontal padrão, com uma alta taxa de sucesso e baixo risco de eventos adversos.

Pharmacognostical study of Ochrosia elliptica Labill. (Apocynaceae)

Ochrosia elliptica Labill. is a small shrub belonging to family Apocynaceae and well-known as a promising anticancer agent. Botanical study of the plant was done for the young and old stems, stem bark, and leaves. Laticiferoustubes with yellowish brown content, isodiametric stone cells (sclereids), sclerenchyma (rod-like), and calcium oxalateclusters are the main diagnostic elements observed in this plant. Furthermore, DNA fingerprinting was done usingrapid amplified (RAPD) and inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) techniques with the identification of a total of 30RAPD markers and 17 ISSR markers. Carbohydrates, sterols, catechol tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids were presentin all the organs under investigation. This study could be valuable for quality control of the plant.

Comparison of Laser In Situ Keratomileusis Flap Morphology and Predictability by WaveLight FS200 Femtosecond Laser and Moria Microkeratome: An Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Study

PURPOSE: To evaluate laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flap thickness predictability and morphology by femtosecond (FS) laser and microkeratome (MK) using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. METHODS: Fifty-two candidates for the LASIK procedure were stratified into two groups: FS laser-assisted (Allegretto FS-200) and MK flap creation (Moria 2). Flap thickness was determined at five points. The side-cut angle was measured in three directions at the margin interface. LASIK flap assessment was performed one month postoperatively by Spectralis anterior segment optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients (93 eyes) were recruited; 49 eyes were stratified to the FS group and 44 eyes to the MK group. The FS group had relatively even flap configurations, and the MK group had meniscus-shaped flaps. Mean differences between planned and actual flap thickness were 12.93 ± 8.89 and 19.91 ± 5.77 µm in the FS and MK groups, respectively. In thin flaps (100 to 110 µm), there was a significant disparity between the two groups (7.80 ± 4.71 and 19.44 ± 4.46 µm in the FS and MK groups, respectively). However, in thicker flaps (130 µm), comparable flap thickness disparity was achieved (18.54 ± 9.52 and 20.83 ± 5.99 µm in the FS and MK groups, respectively). Mean side-cut angle was 74.29 ± 5.79 degrees and 32.34 ± 4.94 degrees in the FS and MK groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Comparable flap thickness predictability was achieved in thicker flaps (130 µm), while the FS laser technique yielded a more predictable result in thinner flaps (100 to 110 µm). Different flap morphology was observed in meniscus flaps in MK-LASIK and flap morphology in FS-LASIK.